23 The burden of disease from occupational exposures

Abstract

ObjectivesTo present the main results from the GBD2010 study in terms of the burden of disease arising from occupational risk factors.MethodsAs part of the GBD 2010 project, the burden of disease from occupational risk factors was estimated. These risk factors and conditions were a range of carcinogens; asthmagens; vapours, gases, dusts and fumes (causing COPD); asbestosis, silicosis and coal workers' pneumoconiosis; ergonomic exposures leading to low back pain; injuries and occupational noise (leading to hearing loss). The primary methodology used involved estimating the population attributable fraction by estimating exposure prevalence and identifying appropriate relative risks. Some other estimation approaches were also used.ResultsThe key results of the work will be presented and discussed.ConclusionsWork-related exposures result in a substantial burden of ill health in workers. The results identify exposures and exposure settings that should be looked at when prioritising interventions.